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Showing results for punish. Search instead for unpunish.
Definitions

punish

[puhn-ish] / ˈpʌn ɪʃ /
VERB
penalize for wrongdoing
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abuse chastise correct crack down on discipline dismiss execute expel fine harm hurt incarcerate sentence
STRONG
batter beat blacklist castigate chasten cuff debar defrock exile flog immure injure lash lecture maltreat misuse oppress paddle reprove scourge spank switch train whip
WEAK
attend to beat up do in give a going over give the works knock about rap knuckles rough up slap wrist teach a lesson throw the book at
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aid assist benefit compliment help preserve welcome
STRONG
boost guard lose praise protect surrender
WEAK
award exonerate let go reward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

An escalation shouldn’t punish the people more than the regime.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

An escalation shouldn’t punish the people more than the regime.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

The Catford fighter put that plan into action and started to punish Flores with hooks as she stepped out of the firing line.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

States, Jackson noted, have long assumed the power to punish medical professionals for what they say in addition to what they do.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

I wanted Big Ma to win because she didn’t punish me for getting myself in detention.

From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia